Dozens dead in massive flooding in Brazil

Regional authorities have described the situation in the south of the country as “absolutely unprecedented”

The southernmost Brazilian state of Rio Grande del Sul has been hit with what its authorities have described as the worst flooding in its history. The regional capital of Porto Alegre has been engulfed by heavy torrents, with the city mayor warning that the situation could get even worse.

The total death toll linked to the disaster has climbed to between 56 and 58, according to various media reports, citing the Brazilian civil defense authority. The raging floodwaters have also left more than 70 people injured, with another 67 still missing, the agency said.

The collapse of a hydroelectric dam near the city of Bento Goncalves, coupled with landslides in the area, killed 30 people, the media said. According to some reports, a second dam could possibly collapse in the area as well.

Videos published on social media showed the city completely submerged under water, with its streets turning into rivers that can only be traversed by boat. One clip, supposedly dated May 2, showed powerful torrential streams raging through the streets and roads, dragging debris, trees and even vehicles with them. At least one motorcyclist could be seen dragged away by the floods.

Brazil flood pic.twitter.com/WKx2ke7gk4

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